Despite his poor form this season, which continued on Saturday after coming on as a substitute during the 2-2 draw against West Bromwich Albion, there should be no shortage of bidders if United tries to sell Rooney during the January transfer window.

Chelsea and Manchester City are viewed as the two most likely destinations in England, with Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti saying Monday he would be interested in signing the player.

"If Rooney is on the market, I think that not only Chelsea but a lot of teams would be interested," Ancelotti said.

British newspapers were united Tuesday in saying Rooney would be open to a move to City, following in the footsteps of Tevez, who has flourished in his 15 months at Eastlands.

Ferguson is not closing the door on Rooney staying at United.

"David (Gill)'s prepared to offer the best terms possible for any player in the country," Ferguson said. "We realize and recognize the quality of the player, that's why negotiations were started early summer, two years before his contract was up, to extend that contract."

Rooney's immediate aim will be to get back to full fitness. He was carried off on a stretcher during training on Tuesday, ruling him out of Wednesday's Champions League match against Bursaspor.

It remains to be seen how is treated by Ferguson and United's fans as he attempts to clinch a money-spinning move away from the club.